Who is the mother company of Duracell batteries?
Duracell, the renowned battery brand established in 1964, is currently owned by Berkshire Hathaway Inc., the multinational conglomerate led by Warren Buffett. The acquisition occurred in 2016 when Berkshire Hathaway purchased Duracell from Procter & Gamble in a complex equity swap deal valued at approximately $4.7 billion. As a wholly-owned subsidiary, Duracell operates under Berkshire’s consumer products division while maintaining its global manufacturing and R&D infrastructure for alkaline batteries, lithium-based products, and specialty power solutions.
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How did Berkshire Hathaway acquire Duracell?
Berkshire Hathaway acquired Duracell through a unique stock-for-stock transaction with Procter & Gamble in 2014, finalized in 2016. This strategic move allowed P&G to shed non-core assets while Berkshire gained a stable consumer brand.
The acquisition structure avoided cash expenditure by exchanging P&G’s Duracell shares for $1.7 billion worth of Berkshire stock that P&G already held. Pro Tip: This tax-efficient deal showcases Buffett’s preference for “elephant-sized” acquisitions of durable brands with pricing power. For context, Duracell holds 25% global market share in alkaline batteries, generating over $2 billion annual revenue pre-acquisition.
What subsidiaries operate under Duracell?
Duracell maintains regional manufacturing subsidiaries including Duracell China Ltd. and Duracell North America. These entities handle localized production while adhering to centralized quality standards.
Through its OEM division, Duracell PowerSource serves industrial clients requiring custom battery solutions. Warning: Counterfeit operations often mimic these subsidiary names—always verify supplier certifications. A real-world example is Duracell’s Belgian plant producing OptiFlow™ technology cells for European automotive applications, demonstrating vertical integration.
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FAQs
Does Duracell manufacture lithium batteries?
Yes, Duracell produces lithium coin cells (CR2032) and lithium-ion rechargeables. Their Ultra Lithium series offers 20-year shelf life for low-drain devices.
Is Duracell involved in EV battery development?
While not directly in EV batteries, Duracell supplies auxiliary power systems for electric vehicles through industrial partnerships requiring high-reliability 12V solutions.
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Who is the parent company of Duracell batteries?
Duracell is a wholly owned subsidiary of Berkshire Hathaway, the multinational conglomerate led by Warren Buffett. Berkshire Hathaway acquired Duracell from Procter & Gamble in 2016, making it part of its diverse portfolio of global brands.
Who owned Duracell before Berkshire Hathaway?
Before Berkshire Hathaway’s acquisition in 2016, Duracell was owned by Procter & Gamble (P&G). P&G had incorporated Duracell into its consumer goods division after a series of mergers and acquisitions.
When was Duracell founded?
Duracell’s origins date back to the 1920s, through the collaboration of scientist Samuel Ruben and entrepreneur Philip Mallory. The partnership led to the formation of the P. R. Mallory Company, which later evolved into the Duracell brand.
What does Duracell manufacture?
Duracell manufactures alkaline batteries, specialty cells, and rechargeable batteries designed for high-performance and long-lasting power. The company serves both consumer and industrial markets globally.
Where are Duracell batteries made?
Duracell batteries are primarily produced in the United States, Switzerland, and Belgium. Some of its car batteries are manufactured in the U.S. by East Penn Manufacturing under licensing agreements.
Are Duracell and Energizer the same company?
No, Duracell and Energizer are separate companies. Duracell is owned by Berkshire Hathaway, while Energizer Holdings operates independently as a competitor in the global battery market.
Are Kirkland batteries made by Duracell?
Yes, Kirkland Signature batteries sold by Costco are manufactured by Duracell. They offer similar quality and reliability at a lower price point, making them a popular consumer choice.
What is LiFePO4 Battery Factory’s connection to Duracell?
LiFePO4 Battery Factory is not affiliated with Duracell. It focuses on advanced lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) technology, offering OEM and wholesale battery solutions for automotive, industrial, and golf applications under Redway Battery’s manufacturing expertise.